NATO's Sardinian bases face new pressure as U.S. military eyes small nuclear reactors

The U.S. military is pursuing small modular nuclear reactors to ensure that forward bases can survive two weeks without external power supplies, according to Military.com. James Walker, a nuclear physicist and CEO of NANO Nuclear Energy, told the outlet that diesel reserves alone may not be sufficient to keep bases operational during fuel disruptions, attacks or grid failures. The shift reflects American defence planners' concern that traditional power infrastructure—vulnerable to sabotage, cyberattack or supply chain collapse—leaves NATO installations exposed.

Sardinia hosts two major NATO bases: the naval station at La Maddalena and the air base at Decimomannu, both critical to U.S. and allied operations in the Mediterranean. The island's strategic position—between Europe and North Africa, astride sea lanes to the Suez Canal—makes these installations essential to NATO's southern flank. Any change in how they are powered will ripple through the island's energy policy and its relationship with Rome.

The proposal raises immediate questions about Sardinia's autonomy and environmental exposure. As a region with special status within the Italian state, Sardinia retains significant control over land use and environmental protection. A nuclear installation on the island would require approval from the regional government in Cagliari, not merely from Rome or NATO command. The Sardinian interior, already stressed by drought and wildfire, would face new infrastructure and security demands.